June is Men’s Health Month, a reminder that taking care of your health isn’t just about living longer, it’s about living better. Unfortunately, many men put off routine doctor visits and screenings until symptoms appear. The problem is that some of the most serious health conditions affecting men, including heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and several forms of cancer, can develop silently for years before warning signs become obvious. Regular checkups and preventive screenings can help catch problems early, when treatment is often simpler and more effective.
Health experts recommend that men begin monitoring blood pressure at age 18 and have it checked regularly. Cholesterol screening should start in early adulthood, with testing frequency determined by individual risk factors. Men ages 35 to 70 who are overweight or obese should be screened for type 2 diabetes. Colorectal cancer screening is now recommended beginning at age 45 for adults at average risk. Men between ages 55 and 69 should discuss the pros and cons of prostate cancer screening with their healthcare provider to determine whether a PSA blood test is appropriate for them. In addition, men ages 65 to 75 who have ever smoked should receive a one-time ultrasound screening for an abdominal aortic aneurysm, a potentially life-threatening enlargement of the body’s main artery.
Men’s Health Month is the perfect time to schedule that annual physical, ask questions, and take a proactive approach to your health. A few preventive screenings today could help prevent major health problems tomorrow.
